Algarve Geography

Its coastline, which stretches for 230 km (150 of which arc beaches), is not uniform, changing from Atlantic waters and sheltered beaches between cliffs to long flat beaches with calm and temperate waters. The specific climatic and geographical characteristics make the difference between the Costa Vicentina, on the south-west, and Windward (western Algarve) and Leeward (eastern Algarve), on the south coast.

Washed in the south and west by the Atlantic, protected from the north by mountain ranges that temper the strong winds, this region of calm, warm water has a mild climate with average temperatures around 24°C/753F in summer and 15°C/58°F in winter. The sun shines brilliantly almost all year round giving the region its characteristic light. More than 150 km of beaches caressed by the warm winds from North Africa and a history stretching back to pre-historic times have secured the Algarve's role as a year round holiday destination.

The coast is high and rocky, with little beaches sheltered between cliffs from Sagres Point to Lagos. At Albufeira witness a transition to cliffs of golden or rosy sandstone that reach a peak at Falesia Beach.

From Vilamoura onwards appear extensive sandy beaches that stretch to the mouth of the Guadiana, intersected by the Ria Formosa, a natural park extending between Ancao (Louie) and Manta Rota (Vila Real de Santo Antonio).

In this place of beautiful beaches, sunny days and warm nights, fun and leisure find a tradition and countryside distinct from the rest of Portugal, making the Algarve an ideal place for holidays to suit all tastes.